aAh! REFRESHERS

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PROJECT COORDINATOR Natalie Carragher PRINT EDITORIAL Ben Townsend Sam Peckett Shawna Healey CONTRIBUTORS Ben Thompson Ellie Tyson Hasan Ali Jess Stoddard Pruthvi Khilosia Sam Peckett Shawna Healey Siddra Asghar DESIGN & ILLUSTRATION Georgia Woodhall Giedre Balcytyte Jordan Allan-Alberts Rowan Thorp Vasundhra Thakkar PHOTOGRAPHY Georgina Hurdsfield Giedre Balcytyte SOCIAL MEDIA Sam Peckett

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elcome back to a new year, a new semester, and a new issue from aAh! Following a (hopefully relaxing) break, there’s plenty to think about as we all settle back into the university routine. Thankfully, this REFRESHERS issue has got you covered - from ways to make your accommodation extra homely and how to be more environmentally friendly, to looking after your mental health and alternative activities to Manchester’s renowned nightlife. So sit back, enjoy the issue and settle into 2020.

CONTENTS THINGS TO DO.......................................4 WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR SU.....10 SOCIETIES AND SPORT CLUBS...........12 TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF AT UNI...14 NAVIGATING UNI LIFE TEE-TOTAL........16 MAKING HALLS YOUR HOME...............18 KEEPING YOUR ROOM CLEAN.............20 EASY STEPS TO BECOMING ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY..............22 CHECKLIST FOR THE CITY.....................26

A GUIDE TO MANCHESTER’S MUSIC VENUES...................................................28 BEST DAYTIME ACTIVITIES....................30 GREATER MANCHESTER’S BEST TATTOO AND PIERCING PARLOURS...................31 VEGAN EATS..........................................32 CHEAP AND EASY EATS........................34 MOCKTAILS OF MANCHESTER.............36 EXPERIENCE: FINDING YOUR PLACE......................................................38

THINGS TO DO We break down the highlights of 2020

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

MCR OPEN EXHIBITION 2020 @ HOME: 18/01/20-15/03/20

EXTRAORDINARY WALL OF SILENCE @ HOME: 12-22/02/20

An open-entry art show celebrating the work of Greater Manchester artists. From January to March, the HOME Gallery will contain over 500 works of art from local residents, selected by a panel of art experts and community representatives. Submit your own work - it’s open to people of any background and any level of experience.

A bilingual performance in both English and British Sign Language, Extraordinary Wall of Silence tells the coming-of-age stories of three young deaf people who are told they are impaired and need fixing. Another vital performance from theatre company Ad Infinitum, a group described as “one of contemporary theatre’s vital organs”.

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MARCH MICHAEL KIWANUKA @ O2 APOLLO: 07/03/20

MARIKA HACKMAN @ GORILLA: 24/02/20

Known for her open, honest and often quite dark lyrics, Marika Hackman blends a mix of genres with indie rock and contemporary folk. Her first mini-album was produced by Alt-J’s Charlie Andrew and she first gained popularity after supporting Laura Marling on her 2013 European and Australian tour.

LANA DEL REY @ MANCHESTER ARENA: 26/02/20

Now six albums in, Lana Del Rey remains a household name after her huge ascent in 2012 following the release of her sophomore album Born to Die. Still containing a mix of genres from pop, baroque and trip hop, Del Rey puts on a captivating show and refuses to be put in a box.

Winner of BBC’s Sound of 2012, Kiwanuka has released two albums to critical acclaim.

Combining R&B, blues, soul and indie with his strong voice to create a unique sound which saw him top the charts with 2016’s album Love & Hate, his third album, Kiwanuka, is due out in October and is expected to be just as mesmerising.

ROCK AGAINST RACISM @ GALLERY OLDHAM: 14/03-31-05-2020

Gallery Oldham presents a nationally touring exhibition of photographs by Yorkshire-born Syd Shelton capturing the legendary Rock Against Racism movement. The collected images offer a fascinating snapshot of the raw energy, optimism and excitement that defined Rock Against Racism, as well as the social context out of which it emerged.

MILTON JONES @ THE LOWRY: 21/03/20

Mock the Week’s resident one-liner is headed to The Lowry to bombard you with more jokes than you can shake a stick at. Known for his deadpan delivery and zany dress sense, Jones’ unique wordplay creates jokes guaranteed to have you in stitches.

PLANET EARTH II LIVE IN CONCERT @ MANCHESTER ARENA: 27/03/20

Following the success of Blue Planet II’s orchestral tour, the BBC are back with Plant Earth II - Live in Concert. Featuring specially-selected footage in 4K ultra HD on a huge screen, the images will be accompanied by the City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra. Expect rousing renditions of Hans Zimmer’s soundtrack alongside stunning footage. A unique experience not to be missed.

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APRIL CIRQUE DU SOLEIL: CRYSTAL @ MANCHESTER ARENA: 01-05/04/20

Cirque du Soleil is bringing its one-of-a-kind arena show blending circus arts and the world of ice-skating into its coolest arena show yet - CRYSTAL. CRYSTAL features the story of a creative, misunderstood young woman and displays a multitude of ice skating styles from freelance to extreme.

THE KITE RUNNER @ THE LOWRY: 07-11/04/20

Coming to Manchester straight from its success in the West End, The Kite Runner, based on Khaled Hosseini’s international bestselling novel, is a haunting tale of friendship in a country on the verge of a devastating war.

LOWKEY @ GORILLA: 15/04/20

Not only a rapper but also a playwright and political activist, UK hip-hop star Lowkey is back after a hiatus with a new album that’s been described as “the most important album of the decade.” Soundtrack to the Struggle 2, is a project full of political and social comments and critiques on today’s society.

HINDS @ ACADEMY 3: 20/04/20

Spanish indie-rockers Hinds, take major influence from The Strokes, Ty Segall and Black Lips but still manage to put their own spin on it. As huge advocates for Keychange’s 50/50 pledge, expect a night full of girl power.

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MAY SOUNDS FROM THE OTHER CITY @ ISLINGTON MILL: 02/05/20

By showcasing new and emerging talent, Sounds From The Other City has become an underground favourite for music lovers.

The 2020 event will take place throughout the festival’s spiritual home of Chapel Street, as the community festival of art, new music, and culture returns to the pubs, churches and community corners of Salford.

PLAY EXPO @ BOWLERS: 09/05/20

The North’s biggest video gaming expo is back for 2020 at Bowlers Exhibition Centre, Manchester. The show will feature areas devoted to all elements of gaming including: indie and modern games, retro consoles and computers, classic arcade machines and pinball tournaments and cosplay.

DOT TO DOT FESTIVAL @ CITY CENTRE: 22-23/05/20

The award-winning, multi-venue festival Dot To Dot returns to Manchester in May 2020, bringing a huge lineup of the best in underground and emerging talent to the city.

Acts announced so far include Easy Life and Skinny Living.

NEIGHBOURHOOD WEEKENDER @ VICTORIA PARK: 23/05/20

Neighbourhood Weekender will take over Victoria Park across the May bank holiday weekend. Ian Brown, former The Stone Roses frontman, will return to his hometown of Warrington for his first major solo headline in almost a decade. Brown is joined by Catfish and the Bottlemen, The Wombats, Miles Kane and Pale Waves.

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JUNE KING STREET FESTIVAL @ KING STREET: 06-07/06/20

This annual festival celebrates King Street’s timeless architecture and rich history with a weekend of live music, historical tours, VIP shopping experiences, a pop-up gin bar and cocktail trail, and the return of the prestigious Manchester Flower Show.

PARKLIFE 2020 @ HEATON PARK: 13/06/20

Parklife festival returns to Manchester this June, celebrating its 10th anniversary. The Parklife 2020 lineup will feature a headline set from Tyler, The Creator, his first solo UK headline show outside of London, and sets from Skepta, Lewis Capaldi, Khalid and more.

LIAM GALLAGHER @ HEATON PARK: 12/06/20

Liam Gallagher will play a huge hometown show at Heaton Park this summer as part of his Why Me? Why Not. tour. The former Oasis frontman will play the iconic Manchester park on the eve of Parklife Festival, joined by a host of special guests (to be announced soon).

MANCHESTER DAY 2020 @ CITY CENTRE: 21/06/20

Manchester Day is an annual event that celebrates everything great about the city.

It is a day for families, residents and visitors to get together and celebrate all things Mancunian that have made Manchester one of the world’s most iconic cities. This year’s theme is ‘Our Planet, Our City’.

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JULY BLUEDOT FESTIVAL @ JODRELL BANK DISCOVERY CENTRE: 23-26/07/20

SOUNDS OF THE CITY: HACIENDA CLASSICAL @ CASTLEFIELD BOWL: 11/07/20

Bluedot is a festival of discovery located in the shadow of the world-renowned Lovell Telescope at Jodrell Bank. Recent Bluedot Festival lineups have featured music from across the genre spectrum.

Hacienda Classical concerts bring together a mixed crowd and lively atmosphere, with a set played as a continuous live DJ mix where vocalists, choir, orchestra and guests all combine creating a vibrant, exciting performance.

MANCHESTER MEGA MELA @ PLATT FIELDS: 25-26/07/20

BILLIE EILISH @ MANCHESTER ARENA: 21-22/07/20

Manchester Mega Mela is the largest celebration of South Asian Culture in the North of England. The Mela is a two day fun-filled event featuring live music, dance, food and traditional arts and crafts bringing the sights, sounds and spicy aromas of South Asia to Platt Fields Park.

Singer-songwriter Billie Eilish brings her Where Do We Go? World Tour to the city, performing two dates. The global, charttopping artist won Record of the Year, Album of the Year, Song of the Year and Best New Artist at this year’s Grammy’s for her single ‘Bad Guy’ and her debut album, When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go. 9

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR SU aAh! speaks to 2019/2020 Students’ Union President, Anna Welsh.

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he Student Union is at the centre of student life at Manchester Met. It’s here that students will congregate – be it in the bar, the café or the shop. However, many students will arrive at university not knowing what else the SU has to offer.

interview Ben Thompson

aAh! speaks to Anna Welsh, President of Manchester Met’s Students’ Union, about what students could expect from their Union in terms of support and opportunities.

“The Union as a whole is going to look at putting on some events throughout the year to make sure that students are constantly getting a great experience, and that they’re given the chance to network.”

This initiative has been running this year from the word go, as the Union joined forces with Girl Gang to introduce an event in Welcome Week called ‘Speed-Mating’: “It’s basically Speed-Dating, but you come to make mates,” Welsh tells us.

Welsh tells us that the Union has great iniatives planned and is looking to promote them more this year: “We tend to be quite hard on ourselves, always looking at ways to improve, and we forget to shout about when we’ve done something really beneficial for students. One of the things we’re hoping to do this year is post lots of positive articles telling people what we’re up to, what wins we’ve had for students and making sure that students know they can come to us.”

“Things like that will be running throughout the year, and we won’t just be having it as a sole focus in Welcome Week.”

Welsh also highlights the role that the Union can play in being an ally to students: “We have a campaigns co-ordinator who will help you campaign on issues that you want to create change around.”

“The Union is also place where students can go with their worries and get some advice from our advisers.”

Giving students a voice is a big part of what motivates Welsh to lead the Union, as they express a desire to give students a platform.

Welsh also tells us that the Union is working to combat student loneliness this year.

One thing that is clear, is that the Union’s services are not to be underestimated. “We do a variety of things. One of the big things is our advice centre, they’ll be able to help you with anything, from academic issues to reporting instances of hate crime – we’re a hate crime reporting centre.”

Welsh tells us one thing that motivates them to lead the Union is a desire to spread awareness about what the Union offers to students, so they know the building has more to offer than its bar and café.

Follow @TheUnionMMU and @MMUPresident for more.

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“The Union is also a place where students can go with their worries and get some advice from our advisers.�

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SOCIETIES AND SPORT CLUBS Student Officers Evelyn Sweeney and Ross Sharman reveal the importance of making the most of your time at uni.

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niversity can give students an opportunity to branch out and

reinvent themselves. A great way

to do so is by getting involved in

extra-curricular activities. The

Student Union is home to tons of

societies and sports teams, each with their own benefits. To get an idea of what societies and sports can boost your university experience, we speak to the Student Officers representing the Students’ Union.

interview Ben Thompson

Societies Development Officer Eve Sweeney, explains how she feels inspired in her role because socities completely transformed her experience: “If I didn’t have societies, I honestly might have dropped out of university.

Having that support system is really nice, and I want to carry that on for students.”

During her time as a student, Sweeney was part of the Rock Society, Gamers Society and the Vague Society. This year she will support new socities including the Chess Society, the E-Sports Society and the Musical Theatre Society.

Sweeney wants to encourage new and returning students to head to the Union and find out what’s on offer: “I went to Fresher’s Fair and I had no idea what I wanted to join, but I went along and got into it. It was a nice way of chatting to people. But if you can’t make it to a Fair, there’s also a lot of information online.”

Sports Officer Ross Sharman, reveals that the sport offer is just as jam-packed too: “We have our mainstream ones, like football, basketball, rugby. We have ones that people may never have tried or heard of before, like lacrosse, American football and all sorts of martial arts.

Currently we offer 40 sports, so we really do have most things covered.”

But Sharman explains that not all of the sport available is competitive and high pressure.

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“If I didn’t have societies, I honestly might have dropped out of university.

Having that support system is really nice, and I want to carry that on for students.”

“We have sport on a competitive level if you want to join a team, but we have options on a recreational level as well. You can join Active Campus, which is basically an open session where you can go and try a sport every week.”

“It’s fantastic and a lot more welcoming. A lot of our sports teams have become like families, which is great. Our teams are moving away from ‘that culture’ and they’re understanding that sports is for everyone, regardless of whether you’ve done it before or what type of person you are.

“There’s a huge amount of people who probably don’t even know what’s on offer. It’s really important we emphasise what’s on offer, whether you’ve done it before or not. You can start something from scratch and give it a go!”

Sharman is aware that for some students, sports may carry a stigma from the days of high school. He adds that this is something the sports team are actively working to rectify.

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TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF AT UNI “Don’t ever feel guilty about making use of a service - the support is designed with you in mind.”

A

cross the board, there has been an increase in the number of university students disclosing issues around their mental health to their universities.

The Institute for Public Policy Research disclosed in 2017 that the number of student suicides increased by 79 percent between 2007 and 2015. This statistic, revealed in the ‘Not By Degrees – Improving Student Mental Health In The UK’s Universities’ report, is distressing to discover, but doesn’t reflect a student-only issue.

Further Universities UK research shows that between 2013 and 2016, ‘higher education students in England and Wales had a significantly lower suicide rate compared with the general population of similar ages.’

words Ben Thompson

While it’s troubling to see any increase, it could be argued that this is as a result of increased awareness about mental health and the increased resources available to those struggling.

challenges. The workload seems immense and daunting, especially when you get wind of those word counts. Student finance was exhausting – it wasn’t fun to receive an email telling me my tuition hadn’t been paid, in my second week.

What advice would I impart? First of all, making sure you have a tutor you can speak to in confidence is crucial. I remember with fondness how my tutor was a source of reassurance when I was “having a wobble”. Admittedly, it is intimidating to open up to somebody, but as my tutor frequently said: “I’ve heard it all before, I guarantee what’s happening to you is happening to somebody else.” These words helped me feel less embarrassed and access support services that helped.

Secondly, remember that the university is built to cater to your needs. I remember feeling like a pest, going into the Student Finance Office to enquire about my loan. But then my tutor reminded me that’s what they are there for.

What is a university without its students? Don’t ever feel guilty about making use of a service – the support is designed with you in mind.

On the face of it, it’s understandable why coming to university is a challenging time for any new student. University students are often living away from their families for the first time, and with this jarring experience comes a whole new set of responsibilities.

Students have to balance their studies with budgeting and maintenance for the first time. illustration Jordan Allan-Alberts Even for myself – somebody who lived at home – coming to university came with some 14

Thirdly, be kind to yourself. This might be a point you won’t want to hear but making an early start on your assignments can really make all the difference. A lot of people live by the mantra of “I can do it all in one night”, but I couldn’t imagine anything worse. Even if that early start just means deciding on what topic you’re going to focus your essay on, or checking out some of the literature surrounding your topic, it can make a huge difference to your stress levels. Students experience enough anxiety about their grades, without exacerbating this by leaving everything to the last minute.

Finding a balance is crucial to university life.

As tempting as it can be to go on a night out every week, the reality can often be negative – especially if you weren’t a big drinker before coming to university. Too much alcohol can be bad for your mental health (and bank balance!)

Self-care is important, so build this into your routine.

Whether or not my advice is of any use to you, I hope you’ll at least remember one thing about university – you’re never alone. Whether you’re living at home or in halls, you’ll find that the university experience is remarkably similar for most students. That includes the lows, and among your fellow students, you’ll find valued confidants. Persevere, but don’t be afraid of acknowledging when you need help.

Useful numbers Manchester Met Counselling, Mental Health & Wellbeing Service 0161 247 3493 Samaritans 116 123, its free to call (24 hours, 365 days a year) The Sanctuary, 0300 003 7029, support for young people and adults living with mental health difficulties.

Mind: Lines are open 9am to 6pm, Monday – Friday (except bank holidays), call 0300 123 3393 If you need urgent medical advice you can book an emergency GP appointment with your GP surgery. If you haven’t already, register with a local doctor. To find one near you visit www.nhs.uk/service-search If you or someone else needs immediate medical help or attention call 999 or go to your Accident and Emergency Department at your local hospital.

NAVIGATING UNI LIFE TEE-TOTAL

“Having friends who respect your boundaries is crucial.”

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ore than one in five university students identify as tee-total, meaning they abstain from drinking alcohol, according to reports by The Independent.

The survey, conducted by the National Union of Students (NUS), found that a quarter of students felt there should be more alcohol-free activities on campus.

However, many argue that university culture remains largely alcohol-centered. The Alcohol and Alcoholism journal published an article in 2011 that indicated 61% of male students and 48% of female students surveyed exceeded ‘sensible’ weekly drinking limits. 28% of this sample were reportedly taking part in bingedrinking.

words Ben Thompson

Each student’s university experience is different, but there’s no denying that alcohol is a major part of university life for many – especially for those in their first year of study. An unofficial adage is that the first year of some degrees “doesn’t really count”, with final grades made up of second and third-year work, allowing room to overindulge and potentially fall behind on university work.

Society can be pretty liberal when it comes to nights out.

So, what does this mean for students not so comfortable with drinking? It may seem like a daunting prospect to face university as a nondrinker, there are signs that things are getting progressively easier.

“It’s at this point that you’ll find out even the Conservative Society can be pretty liberal when it comes to nights out.”

An NUS survey in 2018 found that although 70% of student respondents felt people drink to fit in, 41% said they have never experienced this pressure to drink from their friends.

Making sure you’re in with a group that don’t push you to drink is essential. Even I, somebody who drinks semi-regularly, can appreciate that my friends aren’t the type to pressure me into drinking more than I want to.

For new students trying to navigate the unfamiliar environment of the university campus, Having friends who respect your boundaries is crucial. alcohol can be waiting around every corner.

If you’re looking to get involved with a society, chances are you’ll find yourself signing up for ‘pub crawl’ or drink-related socials. It’s at this point that you’d find out even the Conservative

The university experience can be an exciting time to try new things, and step outside your comfort zone, but it has to be on your terms.

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illustration Rowan Thorp

Useful links Drinkaware: Visit drinkaware.co.uk for the latest UK government medical advice about alcohol.

NHS: Check out the NHS Leaflet ‘Alcohol & You’ online at web.ntw.nhs.uk/selfhelp/ Manchester Met Counselling, Mental Health & Wellbeing Service 0161 247 3493 17

MAKING HALLS YOUR HOME Packing and moving everything out of your student accommodation at the end of your tenancy is a hassle, so you shouldn’t bring everything you’ve ever owned to uni. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have things that will make your room more ‘you’ during your studies.

Storage, storage, storage!

When choosing your halls, investigate the storage options in the room. You might be lucky in getting a room with built-in storage, but if your room doesn’t come with any you should think about other options. This will also help with moving when your lease is up! Plastic storage towers aren’t the most glamorous or Instagram-worthy storage solutions, but they are cheap and most come with wheels making them easy to move. Under-the-bed boxes are also great for things like university work, and books that you need to keep but want put away. Wardrobe organisers also help if you have limited space, so you can separate your clothes, pyjamas, and undies!

If you need ‘proper’ storage solutions like a chest of drawers, check out local selling sites such as Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree, where people are always selling second-hand furniture for cheap (or even giving away for free!)

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Lights Okay, so fairy lights are a first-year university meme, but they’re cheap, light, easy to move and store, and jazz up any space! Everyone should own at least one string of fairy lights to brighten up their halls bedroom. If your room doesn’t come with a lamp for bedtime reading, consider purchasing one. Reading before bed helps calm the brain and body in preparation for sleep, which is often thought of as unimportant in the first year, but it’s not!

House plants Indoor house plants freshen the air and make your room look great. Studies also show that house plants can increase concentration.

Seeing greenery and nature is calming to most (unless you hate the outside!) which can improve your mood and mental health.

Pick a house plant that’s easy to maintain like succulents or a dracaena, and look out for plant sales at the student union.

Frame it Student halls are usually super strict on decoration, but one thing that’s allowed in most contracts are temporary, removable hanging strips. These stick to the wall with Velcro technology and allow you to hang picture frames, canvases and artwork without causing damage to the surfaces. Everyone loves a good poster or two, but cheap frames from Ikea can add a touch of class.

Pillows, blankets and throws This one isn’t for everyone but having decorative pillows and a blanket on your bed not only looks cute, but gives a sense of comfort and homeliness, especially when first year halls are often very fit-for-purpose and utilitarian. Pillows and blankets go from very cheap to incredibly expensive, but student-friendly Primark sells cute, cosy and cheap soft furnishings to suit anybody’s tastes!

words Shawna Healey illustration Georgia Woodhall

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KEEPING YOUR ROOM CLEAN The room is going to get messy. No, not Tommy Wiseau’s loveable train wreck of a debut – the one that you’ll be living in for the first year of university.

3. THE WORLD’S YOUR OYSTER Who said that your room is the only place you can store stuff? Spread out.

Shove it in the kitchen, the utility room, your locker at work, friend’s rooms, toilets, or the bin, just not the mini fridge; that’s gone.

Flat photographers are clever, so don’t fall for those wide angles online that make the tiny bed look like a king-size.

Your room will be smaller than you expect, and you’ll have so much stuff.

4. INSPECTA’ GADGETS Not everything in life needs to be DIY. Get online and find the latest storagetech to pimp out you room with. Some ideas:

Did you bring a mini fridge, too? I did.

words Ben Townsend

But keep calm. I shared a cramped single room with my girlfriend last year in Cambridge Halls but somehow, we still had enough space. We actually miss the place, would you believe. As a result, I feel qualified to share my top five tips for making that tiny room work for you.

• BED LIFTERS If you’re not afraid of heights (or monsters), you’ll get more space under your bed if you just lift it up.

1. SEND THEM BACK!

• STICKY HOOKS

Listen to me, not Donald Trump. You won’t need half of the stuff you brought to university, so send it back pronto. Just don’t cry as the mini fridge goes back into the car; it’s not worth it.

Driving nails into the wall is frowned upon in most student accommodation and you can kiss goodbye to your deposit, so be cool and stick your hangers up instead.

2. GO BOXING

• SHOE ORGANISER

Get a cardboard box (a small one), take the top off and duct tape the sides to the wall.

Or stick string through it and hang it up*.

Suddenly, you’ll have zero-gravity storage space. You could even decorate it with nice sequins or something. *See no. 4

I only ever keep one pair of shoes at a time, with plenty of holes. However, if you prefer plenty of shoes and no holes, keep those clogs in a shoe sack to save space.

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5. THE BEAST The absolute last resort. Pick up everything, I mean EVERYTHING and pile it up in the corner of the room. Extra points if it touches the ceiling. But, defeat The Beast within the week, or you’ll never see your beloved possessions again.

Now that your room is clean, your stuff is stashed and your fridge is gone, all you need to do is add the golden four – house plants, fairy lights, posters and a rug. Sorted.

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EASY STEPS TO BECOMING MORE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY With the ever-increasing threat of climate change, being environmentally conscious is really important. Here are five easy ways to reduce waste, and improve sustainability in Manchester.

Reduce, reuse, recycle

words Shawna Healey

We’ve all been told since we were children to reduce, reuse, recycle, but some find this hard when they’re away from home.

Some student halls may have accessible, easy recycling facilities but some, sadly, do not. The first thing to do is look at buying separate recycling bins, which makes it super easy to separate your glass, plastic, and cardboard.

Tap water

Obvious for some, but many people don’t drink water that isn’t pre-bottled in plastic packaging. This love affair with bottled water is not only expensive (up to 500 times more expensive than tap water!), it is also incredibly wasteful. If you strongly dislike tap water then a water filter may be a good option, and buying a reusable water bottle will help reduce your plastic bottle usage!

Lower your carbon footprint You may be thinking ‘How do I reduce my carbon footprint?’ - and that’s a good question. ‘Carbon footprint’ is defined as “the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere by a person, group or company”. Easy minor changes such as taking showers instead of baths, switching lights off, and monitoring heating and air conditioning help to reduce your personal carbon footprint.

One way to reduce the amount of recycling you need to do is to reduce your waste.

There are loads of easy solutions like buying bars of soap to reduce single-use plastic packaging. Reducing consumption of things like soft drinks will not only be healthier for you, but it also decreases waste dramatically.

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Public transport and cycling

Reducing food waste

Taking public transport is easy in Manchester. We’ve got buses that run through Rusholme and Fallowfield 24/7, frequent trams and trains that serve wider parts of Greater Manchester. There are also cycle lanes throughout the city, making cycling a safer, healthy and environmentally conscious mode of transport.

Reducing food waste by planning your meals each week is not only cheaper and quicker in the long run, it also reduces plastic waste and can help you bond with housemates. Cook together and freeze leftovers!

CHECKLIST FOR THE CITY It’s easy to move to a new city and get lost in the student bubble. That’s understandable - there’s loads to keep you busy as a student here in Manchester. But there’s also a lot more to do and see outside of Hulme, Fallowfield and Withington! Take a look at our top picks of must-visit places in this great city.

Affleck’s Palace

Affleck’s Palace is an indoor market located in the Northern Quarter. It’s full of loads of independent shops, boutiques and stalls focusing on alternative and vintage items.

There are even a few cafes, perfect for grabbing a milkshake or a coffee during an afternoon shop. A Manchester icon.

National Football Museum

The National Football Museum is free to all City of Manchester residents, making this a perfect place to go and check out on a budget. It’s ideal for football fanatics and casual fans alike with four floors of exhibition space. The first floor features exhibitions on the history of the game, the England national team, stadiums, clubs and players while the second floor is more interactive, offering you an opportunity to show off your football skills in a variety of different games including a virtual penalty shoot out.

Manchester Art Gallery

words Sam Peckett

Hosting a variety of local and international exhibits, from historical collections to contemporary art, Manchester has a worldclass gallery right on our doorstep. Free and open to all, the gallery is accessible by bus or Metrolink and is well worth a few visits as the exhibitions change throughout the year.

The Whitworth

The Whitworth is one of the city’s must-see cultural destinations. The gallery features an art garden, sculpture terrace and orchard garden, alongside modern spaces that embrace the park, such as a landscape gallery and a café in the trees.

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Chetham’s Library

The oldest public library in the Englishspeaking world, and maybe one of the most beautiful, too. The building dates back to 1421 and began building its book collection back in 1655. There’s free admission for visitors, just book on their site, though they do suggest a donation of at least £3.

Fletcher Moss Botanical Garden

Manchester has so much going on in the city that sometimes it’s nice to escape it all and enjoy a bit of greenery. Fletcher Moss Park in Didsbury has a beautiful botanical garden, and the park leads onto the River Mersey, perfect for a stroll when you’re in need to relax.

Trafford Centre

The largest shopping centre in the North West.

There’s pretty much anything and everything you could want in here: loads of shops, a cinema, an aquarium, mini-golf, laser quest, arcades and a huge amount of places to eat and drink once you’ve tired yourself out.

illustration Giedre Balcytyte

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Live music and Manchester

go hand in hand. From Joy Division, The Smiths, The Stones Roses and Oasis to Bugzy Malone, IAMDDB and The Mouse Outfit, Manchester has always been leading the way in British music. While you’re here in Manchester, you can see that legacy continue to grow by checking out artists at a huge variety of venues all over the city.

GORILLA

With a capacity of around 600, this is still one of the smaller venues on our list - perfect for seeing artists just before they break into the big time. They also put on one off shows with huge artists - Kylie Minogue, Snoop Dogg and Foals have both played here in recent years so keep your eyes peeled and you might be able to see a mega-act in a small space!

Gorilla, 54-56 Whitworth St, M1 5WW

O2 APOLLO

Home to both music gigs and comedy nights, the O2 Apollo’s sloped floor means perfect views from front to back of the 3500-capacity venue. Ideal for hosting artists just before they make the step up to arenas, plenty of big names play here.

SOUP KITCHEN

Deep in the Northern Quarter is Soup Kitchen, a self-described canteen, bar and music venue playing host to live music and club nights.

With a capacity of around 200, it’s perfect for catching smaller artists in the city. Named one of the 10 Best Night Clubs in the UK by Guardian in 2015 and winner of the Best Live Music Venue in Manchester in 2013 from DesignMyNight, this is a must visit for all music fans in the city.

Soup Kitchen, 31-33 Spear St, M1 1DF

BAND ON THE WALL

Band on the Wall has, in some form, been a music venue in Manchester for the best part of a century, when in the early 20th century musicians would play for drinkers when it was a pub known as The George and Dragon.

Nowadays it’s somewhat different, with a lovely bar serving over 50 gins and freshly made food served all evening. Adjacent to the bar is the 350-capacity music venue that hosts artists from a variety of different cultures all around the world, as well as homegrown talent from here in Manchester.

Band on the Wall, 25 Swan St, M4 5JZ

ALBERT HALL

The Albert Hall is set a music venue set in an old chapel, featuring stained glass windows and a huge organ still in place. With a capacity of around 1,800, The Albert Hall is perfect for catching mid-sized acts in a gorgeous, unique setting. A must visit.

Albert Hall, 27 Peter St, M2 5QR

O2 Apollo, Stockport Rd, M12 6AP 26

words Sam Peckett

A GUIDE TO MANCHESTER’S MUSIC VENUES

NIGHT & DAY CAFE

Night & Day Café is a cornerstone of the Northern Quarter and Manchester’s vibrant and diverse live music scene. Its red neon sign invites you into a cosy bar and cafe which turns itself into a 220-capacity music venue in the evenings. A rite of passage for young bands, plenty of up-and-coming artists come and play here. Visit and you might just catch the next big thing.

Night & Day Café, 26 Oldham St, M1 1JN

The O2 RITZ

MANCHESTER ACADEMY

Manchester Academy has four venues located in and around the University of Manchester’s Students’ Union: Academy 1, Academy 2, Academy 3 and Club Academy, with capacities of 2,600, 900, 450 and 620 respectively. The varieties in size mean a diverse set of artists play the venues and with cheap food and drink at the Union bar downstairs, it’s the perfect place to meet up for a catch-up before the show.

UoM Students Union, Oxford Rd, M13 9PR

Located across the road from Gorilla, The O2 Ritz is a grade-II listed building built nearly 100 years ago. As a result it’s a stunning 1,500 capacity venue, meaning gig-goers get one of the best experiences in the city. Its iconic balcony overlooks the stage for when you fancy a relaxed evening and below is a huge floor space for when you fancy a dance.

MANCHESTER ARENA

The O2 Ritz, Whitworth St W, M1 5NQ

Manchester Arena, Victoria Station Approach, M3 1AR

photography Georgina Hurdsfield

With a capacity of 21,000 Manchester Arena has the highest seating capacity of any indoor venue in the UK, and is one of the busiest indoor arenas in the world. Hosting music as well as comedy, sport, talks and more, this is the place to see huge acts from all over the world.

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Night & Day Café

YES

Four-storey music venue and terrace bar, YES features a basement club and roof terrace.

One the first floor you’ll find The Pink Room - a 250-capacity gig venue where you can watch up-and-coming talent in an intimate setting.

They had Martha Reeves playing back in June, so you can even catch a few music legends here as well!

YES, 38 Charles St, M1 7DB

WAREHOUSE PROJECT

The Warehouse Project is a Manchester icon.

Every September to December, a series of club nights take place in the city - this year hosted at The Mayfield Depot. A must-visit for any club lover who finds themselves in Manchester, expect some of the world’s biggest DJs playing to passionate crowds.

Mayfield Train Station, The Depot, M1 2QF

THE DEAF INSTITUTE

O2 VICTORIA WAREHOUSE

The Deaf Institute, 135 Grosvenor St, M1 7HE

Trafford Wharf Rd, Stretford, Manchester M17 1AB

A club and music venue, The Deaf Institute has a calendar full of artists beginning to make a name for themselves. It’s an intimate 260-capacity venue which opens up into a club night afterwards, so why not stay and dance the night away?

A huge warehouse space with a 3,500-capacity. With plenty of bars and a single, huge room, this is the perfect venue for seeing big acts without sacrificing any of the atmosphere that arena shows can lose.

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THE WHISKEY JAR

One of the Northern Quarter’s music gems, The Whiskey Jar hosts a jazz night on Mondays and an open mic night on Tuesdays.

Plenty of talented musicians gather here to introduce their sound to the commited crowd of music lovers. This venue has a calm ambience and is perfect for indulging in some live music without any distractions.

photography Giedre Balcytyte

14 Tariff Street, Manchester M1 2FF

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BEST DAYTIME ACTIVITIES IN THE CITY Manchester is renowned for its nightlife and lively bars but there’s still plenty to do during the daytime! From mini golf and bowling to less traditional activities such as the Crystal Maze LIVE experience and axe throwing. This list combines action for thrill-seekers, as well as activities that can be enjoyed at your own pace!

Junkyard Golf

Junkyard Golf is one of Manchester’s staple activities, enjoyed by all! Situated in the heart of Deansgate, the junk-filled weird wonderland offers a unique crazy golf experience. There are three nine-hole courses to choose from - named Pablo, Gary, and Bozo!

Dog Bowl Bowling Alley

Dog Bowl is a New York City inspired tenpin bowling alley, combining five full length bowling lanes with an American themed bar and restaurant. They also offer local craft beers and specially curated cocktails.

Treetop Adventure Golf

Treetop golf is another epic mini golf centre in the heart of the city centre, featuring two courses of 18 holes. Treetop Golf offers student discount and early bird tickets, which makes it a great option for those on a tight budget!

words Shawna Healey

Namco Funscape

Namco Funscape is a little bit out of the centre of Manchester, but it’s well worth a visit! Funscape combines a traditional arcade with bowling and bumper cars. For anyone who spent their childhood holidays in arcades, this is a place to go relive those memories!

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So, body modification for everyone, and that’s fine, but if you’re ink or metal mad, Greater Manchester has some of the coolest (and cleanest parlours) in the UK. Good body modifications aren’t cheap and cheap body modifications aren’t good, but these shops uphold and practise the best of industry standards.

Rain City

Rain City, in the heart of Chinatown, is one of Manchester’s premium tattoo shops. Tattoo artists Hannah Clark (@hlctattoo), Gre Hale (@grehale), Danny Rossiter (@dannyrossitertattoo), Matt Cooley (@cooleytattooer), Josh Russel (@joshrusseltattoo) and apprentice Ace Philips (@acephillips) offer a variety of tattoo styles, and are a favourite for rock stars such as Ben Barlow from Neck Deep.

words Shawna Healey

GREATER MANCHESTER’S BEST TATTOO AND PIERCING PARLOURS Studio IX

Studio IX is based over in Salford, and owner Liam Marland specialises in portraits and neo-traditionalism. If that’s not your thing, Holly Viscous (@baby.vicious) offers blackwork tattooing, and Megan May offers traditional tattoos that will knock your socks off!

Holier Than Thou

Holier Than Thou offer tattoos but are best known for their piercings. Dubbed “Manchester’s No.1 Piercing Parlour”, you can walk in and come out with shiny new bling in under 15 minutes (if there’s not a queue!). Piercers Marcus and Nicky have years of experience in the business and are experts in piercings!

Studio 95

Situated on Oldham Street in the Northern Quarter, Studio 95 offers tattoos and piercings at great prices. The parlour is hygienic, easily accessible and super cool. The studio offers a range of piercing jewellery from your standard medical grade steel to the fanciest of jewels that would make any magpie jealous.

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F

ound yourself in Manchester and keen to scout out the best plantbased food in the city? Look no further, we’ve got you covered.

Manchester’s top vegan junk-food spot. Huge, faux-beef burgers with baecon and cheez, loaded fries, fried buttermalk seitan chicken, vegan hot dogs and mac & cheez. It’s all here, and it all tastes so good. They even have £5 lunch deals! Pig out with a clean conscience.

An independent vegan coffee house in Withington that hosts a range of wellbeing events and workshops. A great spot to relax with a coffee, homemade smoothie or milkshake and enjoy some of their books or board games. If you’re feeling hungry then they’ve got you covered, with a lengthy breakfast menu and selection of ‘comfort classics’ and desserts. They also have a selection of vegan items like vegan cheese and vegan milk you can grab for making tasty treats back at home.

V Rev, 20-26 Edge St, M4 1HN

Boho Utopia, 485 Wilmslow Rd, M20 4AN

V Rev

Fuel Cafe Bar

words Sam Peckett

Boho Utopia

A vegan and vegetarian cafe and bar in Withington. Great value and even greater taste.

The breakfasts are big and served until 4pm, with mains served until 9pm. The delicious menu is made using local ingredients. Make sure you try the chips!

Fuel Cafe Bar, 448 Wilmslow Rd, M20 3BW

Bundobust

Indian food and craft beer. What else could you want? Bundobust dishes up meat-free and vegan options, served in a communal style room with long tables and a bustling atmosphere. The street food on offer is great to share with friends and well-priced. Since Bundobust opened in Manchester back in 2017, two more have popped up in Leeds and Liverpool - a testament to just how good it is.

Bundobust, 61 Piccadilly, M1 2AG 32

illustration Giedre Balcytyte

ATS E N A G VE

8th Day Co-op

Greens Restaurant

The 8th Day Co-op, 111 Oxford Rd, M1 7DU

Greens Restaurant, 41-43 Lapwing Ln, M20 2NT

The 8th Day Co-operative is a vegetarian and vegan shop and cafe on Oxford Road. The shop is stocked with a huge amount of health foods and specialist vegan and vegetarian options that you might not find in your average supermarket. The soups, stews, dahls and sandwiches are perfect for those popping in for lunch. The menu often changes, so head on in and check out the latest offerings.

Greens Restaurant in West Didsbury was opened back in 1990 by TV chef Simon Rimmer before he found fame. The menu is a real mix of foods from across the world, so there’s sure to be something here to cater to everyone’s taste. This is the place to head to for an upmarket treat - especially if it’s when mum and dad are visiting and they can help out with the bill!

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CHEAP AND EASY MEALS For many students, your university years will be the first time you start cooking for yourself 7 days a week.

This means you may need a few new recipe ideas to make sure you’re not eating the same thing every night.

Here are some of our top picks for easy, tasty meals.

Spaghetti Bolognese

This one is perfect for batch cooking. You can easily make a good four or so portions and pop them in some tupperware to have the rest of the week. It’s super easy to make vegan or vegetarian too, just swap out the beef mince for vegetarian or vegan mince and use veggie stock instead.

Serves four.

Method:

Heat the olive oil in a pan and fry the beef mince until browned. Add the onions and fry until soft, then add the mushrooms and fry until soft. Add the garlic, chopped tomatoes and stir in. Add the veggie stock cubes and mixed herbs and season with salt and pepper.

Allow to simmer for 15 minutes while stirring occasionally (though the longer you can simmer, the better!) Cook the spaghetti for 8-10 minutes in boiling water. Drain the spaghetti and serve with the bolognese. Add cheese as an optional extra if you wish.

Ingredients:

words Sam Peckett

Olive oil 450g beef mince 2 onions, diced 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped 150g mushrooms Mixed herbs 2 tins of chopped tomatoes 2 veggie stock cubes Spaghetti

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illustration Rowan Thorp

Paella

This is a great single pan recipe that’s super easy, rich in flavour and full of goodness. Feel free to add different veggies or substitute the meat for vegetarian or vegan alternatives and use veggie stock instead!

Serves 4.

Ingredients: • Olive oil • 1 onion, diced • 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped • 1 red pepper, deseeded and chopped • 1 yellow pepper, deseeded and chopped • 250g risotto rice • 500ml chicken or vegetarian stock • 110g chorizo sausage, sliced • 200g frozen peas • 300g frozen seafood mix, defrosted • 1 tsp turmeric Method: Heat the oil in a frying pan, add the onion and cook until soft. Add the chorizo and fry until it releases oils. Add the peppers and garlic and cook for 3-4 minutes. Add the risotto rice, turmeric and stock and simmer for approximately 15 minutes. Tip in the peas and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in the seafood mix until cooked through. Add salt and pepper and serve.

Homemade Pasta Sauce

Instead of buying a jar of pasta sauce, you can make a really healthy batch of sauce which can be kept in your fridge or freezer until its used up. Really useful to have when you’re in a hurry, just add it to some pasta and you’re sorted!

Serves 2 Ingredients: • 1 tin of chopped tomatoes • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped • 1 veggie stock cube • Mixed herbs • Salt and pepper • Pasta (whichever kind you prefer) Method: Fry the garlic in a pan for a minute and then pour in the chopped tomatoes, add vegetable

stock and season with mixed herbs, salt and pepper and stir until hot. Stir in cooked pasta.

Fajitas

Fajitas are a perfect easy meal when you’re cooking with friends. A packet of tortillas, some veg and chicken and a few spices are all you need and it can all be cooked easily in one pan!

Serves 2 Ingredients: • 2 chicken breasts, diced • 2 peppers, sliced • 1 onion, sliced • 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped • 1 tsp chilli powder • 1 tsp paprika • Packet of tortillas Method: Heat oil in a frying pan and add the chicken breasts, frying until they’re cooked all the way through. Add the peppers and onion and fry until soft. Add the garlic and fry for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add in the chilli powder and paprika and stir in. Serve in tortilla wraps.

Stir-fry

This recipe is really quick and you can easily swap out ingredients and tweak this to your exact tastes.

Serves 2-3 Ingredients: • 2 chicken breasts, diced • 3-4 spring onions, finely sliced • 150g beansprouts • 100g mushrooms, thinly sliced • 1 small onion, sliced • 200g egg noodles • Soy sauce Method: Heat oil in a pan and fry the chicken. Add in the onion and fry until browned. Add a splash of soy sauce alongside the mushrooms and spring onions and stir fry for around 4 minutes until the vegetables have softened. Add in the spring onions and stir fry for 2 minutes before adding the egg noodles and stir-fry for another 2 minutes.

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MOCKTAILS OF MANCHESTER You have to admit, we all love a cocktail. But sometimes you have to be sensible because you’re working in the morning, you’re the designated driver or you simply don’t drink alcohol. Please step up - your trusty mocktail.

Revolución de Cuba Along with some of the best tapas in town, Revs de Cuba know how to make a mojito.

Don’t panic, even without the rum these guys can make a tasty drink. Go crazy with the ‘Virgin Zombie Slayer,’ a fruity mocktail with pineapple, passion fruit, strawberry and lime for only £3.95.

Revolución de Cuba, 11 Peter St, M2 5QR

Hawksmoor You can have your steak and eat it at Hawksmoor, washed down with a lovely drink on the side. Want to trick your friends into believing you are drinking a pint? Grab a ‘Steady Pete’s Ginger Brew’ made from Thornbridge ‘Big Easy’ and Ceder’s Classic spirit. They’ll never know.

Hawksmoor, 184-186 Deansgate, M3 3WB

The Alchemist Hailed as the masters of mixology, The Alchemist is the fancy place that serves drinks in test tubes and uses a lot of dry ice. We love the ‘Spiced Maple Sour’, which features the non-alcoholic spirit Seedlip spice, mixed with vanilla, citrus and tonic (plus a crazy maple foam). Get the camera ready, you don’t want to miss that photo-op.

The Alchemist, 3 Hardman Street, M3 3HF

The Font Mcr

The Botanist

We couldn’t write an article about mocktails and not include our bae, The Font. Offering some of the cheapest drinks in Manchester (even at peak times), Font never fails Looking for a milkshake? Go for the ‘Freddo Over Troubled Water’, a thick chocolate milkshake topped with whipped cream, chocolate sprinkles and a Freddo, for £4!

This place caters for all preferences, with more gin than they know what to do with.

A great non-alcoholic option is the ‘All The Greens’ mocktail, made with fresh mint, kiwi and ginger,with a splash of apple and lemon. Plus the interior of this place is amazing.

The Font, 7-9 New Wakefield St, M1 5NP

The Botanist, 78 Deansgate, M3 2FW

words and photography Jess Stoddard

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FINDING YOUR PLACE at university Hasan Ali reflects on fitting in and personal growth Going to university is one of the hardest things anyone ever has to do. For most, it means moving out and taking on masses of new responsibilities - you have to take on the academic transition yourself and try to make new friends, while keeping in touch with some of the old ones. But one of the things that people don’t discuss is how to find your place in all of the chaos that comes with trying to settle down in a new city and trying to feel like a human again.

University is filled with people from all walks of life who present a thousand and one opportunities to become a new friend, coursemate or even a romantic partner. So it should be easy to find that person to drink with on the weekends (or on the weekdays, I don’t judge). But that’s the issue, university is filled with people can sometimes make you feel insignificant, like that you don’t matter. That can throw your confidence and self-esteem to the point where you may not even feel like making friends anymore, and instead withdraw into yourself where it’s safe and you feel comfortable. It’s okay to feel like that because chances are others are feeling the same way.

Naturally, humans are social creatures. As a psychologist, I point to evidence from the earliest moments of life where contact and social interaction between a child and its caregiver are pivotal, as it will set the pace for emotional and social development for the majority of its life. How that child experiences those early memories will affect

how they treat their own child in the future.

We can see this if we look back to early depictions of human life such as the Native Americans who typically grew up and lived in tightly knit tribes their entire lives. Even in the animal kingdom, sociability is absolutely everywhere from how animal packs interact with one another to how they may mourn the loss of one of their own. Humans aren’t much different in this regard - socialisation is part of who we are and because of this, it forms the type of person we are too.

How we may come to find our place, or ‘pack’, is a different story and is one that you’ll write on your own. As each day presents numerous opportunities to meet new people, write them into the story that is your life. Some people may not stay for the whole story and that’s okay. Whatever experiences you may have with that person, whether they be good or bad, will help you grow. You’ll get a feeling for things and you’ll eventually find that place you were in search of as you arrived to university. You should also never feel shame for how you found your place either, because finding somewhere you finally fit and belong is one of life’s most liberating experiences, aside from graduating of course!

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I found my place in academic research and working with a team of awesome people from a variety of academic backgrounds.

Even though I may have been one of the youngest people there, my love for neuroscience meant that we all shared one common interest that made this group of people feel like my ‘pack’. I felt like I actually mattered and that I wasn’t so insignificant anymore. After a while, my confidence grew. I was no longer scared to approach someone in the shops for help. I was no longer having a sickening train of thought that would drive me to insanity on the daily.

Most importantly, I was happy. It felt like

a thousand kilos had been lifted from my shoulders and the grip around me loosened allowing me to feel like myself again. I felt more like a human.

No matter who you are, where you’re from or what you like to do as a hobby, you will find your place. We all have somewhere to fit into, where our experiences of the whirlwind that is life are appreciated and, by extension, so are we. Just allow yourself to be you.

“Some people may not stay for the whole story and that’s okay.

Whatever experiences you may have with that person, whether they be good or bad, will help you grow.”

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